Jeanne Barnes' Obituary
Mrs. Barnes was born on July 2, 1919, in Dubuque , Iowa to the late Walter W. and Florence Esler Craig. She passed away on November 14, 2011, in Nacogdoches. Jeanne lived her life for others. Wherever her family went, she involved herself in community and political activities. When in Montana in the 50's, she helped found a home for abused children, one of the first in the nation. She has volunteered or coordinated efforts for the American Cancer Society, Cerebral Palsy Center, Children's Receiving Home, March of Dimes and The Kidney Foundation. In the late 50's and 60's she was involved with the NRA on the National Women's committee to advise the NRA on matters directed to women and mothers of this nation. Her husband T.R. Barnes was a petroleum Geologist with Shell Oil Co. and as a result the family moved around a great deal. They spent two years in Tripoli, Libya (1959-1961) and 6 months in Holland. Upon returning home to Midland, TX., she became involved in the political process. She served in many positions and offices with the Midland County Republican Party, Texas Federation of Republican Women, and National Federation of Republican Women. She was named as one of ten outstanding Republican Women in the State of Texas. Mrs. Barnes was instrumental in leading the first campaign for George H. W. Bush for the United States Senate. She was also active in campaigning and coordinating efforts for John Tower, and many other state and national republicans. She was active for years with the Midland Woman's Club, Fine Arts Club serving as President as well as other offices (1962-1965). After moving to Houston she was active in campaigns in Harris County. She worked out of Bill Archer's Congressional office for years. She also developed the system for his office for Academy appointments that is still in use today. Mrs. Barnes was also instrumental in the first campaign for Kay Bailey Hutchison. After moving to Dallas she continued to be active in various Republican Women's clubs. She also found a new passion as an original docent and later as volunteer coordinator for The Dallas Arboretum DeGoyer House. She wrote the docent manual that was used for the first Dallas Blooms. In 1995 She moved to Nacogdoches to be closer to family . Jeanne is survived by one son, Thomas C. Barnes of St. Louis, Missouri; one daughter, Susan B. Haney and husband, James of Nacogdoches; a brother, Edward Craig of California and a sister-in-law, Mary Allen Heard of California; three grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and other extended family and good friends.
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